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xp key deactivation

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5 replies

by annie

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formatted an OEM xp version, installed retail version, can't activate windows with the orig. serial key activation number. program named blue line says it deactivates the xp key code. any other way? tried several 25 digit numbers with no success...

5 replies

by thechas

There are different keys for the OEM and Retail versions.
You have to use the specific key for the CD that you are using for the installation. The key is a specific sequence of characters, and has to match with a code in a file on the CD.

Microsoft has gotten better at having the keys be more specific to a CD. I think that they are running smaller runs from a single master, and than changing the files that relate to the key.

Also, the install key, and the serial number shown on the PC are no longer the same.
The serial number is generated by software when you install XP, and the key is discarded.

Chas

by dmiles

You have used two different versions of the software installed on the machine and this presents a problem with which activation key is valid.

Best bet is to call Microsoft and get the activation key reset or you could try reinstalling only one version of the software and hopefully it will activate.

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